LAUREN JAMES has been banned for two matches following her stamp against Nigeria.
The Lionesses star, 21, was given her marching orders for the stamp on Michelle Alozie’s back in the Women’s World Cup round of 16.
GettyLauren James has been banned for two matches[/caption]
GettyShe saw red for this stamp on Nigeria’s Michelle Alozie[/caption]
AlamyJames was dismissed after a VAR review of the incident[/caption]
The confirmation of the ban by Fifa means that James will only feature again in the tournament should England make it all the way to the final.
Despite going down to ten in the match against Nigeria, England managed to edge through after a penalty shootout was needed to separate the sides.
James will be a miss for the team as she had been in red-hot form for Sarina Wiegman’s side – scoring the winner against Denmark and two in the victory over China during the group stage.
She has since apologised for the moment on social media as she insisted she has “love and respect” towards Alozie.
The attacker also claimed that she would “learn from the experience”.
Wiegmann also had her say on the matter and argued that the stamp was “wholly out of character” and that she is the “sweetest person”.
In an official statement, the Lionesses wrote: “Lauren is really sorry for her actions which led to the red card and is full of remorse. It is wholly out of character for her.
“We will be supporting Lauren though-out and will be putting forward representation on her behalf. We fully respect Fifa’s disciplinary process and will not be making any further comment until after any decision has been made.”
GettyThere were fears she could miss the rest of the tournament[/caption]
APBut she could play again in the tournament if England make the final[/caption]
ITV presenter Laura Woods tweeted in support of James, writing: “We’re only through because of her! Please don’t start this narrative.
“Yes, silly foul. But there’s a reason everyone’s been talking about her. Huge talent, first World Cup, enormous pressure. She’s human.”
Alozie also appeared to forgive James on social media after tweeting: “Abeg, rest.
“We are playing on the world’s stage.
“This game is one of passion, insurmountable emotions, and moments.
“All respect for Lauren James.”
The Lionesses will be without James for their quarter-final against Colombia on Saturday.
She will be watching from the sidelines due to the ban, but will remain hopeful her team-mates can carry on without her and make it to the final.
Should the Lionesses get through the quarter-final and semi-final then James could be recalled to the team.